Electric car charging explained

Electric vehicle (EV) adoption has surged across Europe, but for many new owners, the mechanics of charging can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. A common question concerns the Type 2 charging infrastructure—the standard for most European EVs. 

How does it work? What makes it compatible with different cars and networks? And is it really the best option for both home and public charging? Let’s break down the puzzle of Type 2 charging and how it powers Europe’s EV revolution.

What is a Type 2 cable? 

First things first—what is a Type 2 charging cable, and why is it so widely used? 

The Type 2 connector, often called the Mennekes connector, is the European standard for charging electric cars. Introduced to simplify the diverse and often confusing world of EV charging, it became mandatory for all new electric vehicles sold in the European Union after 2014. 

Key Features of the Type 2 Connector: 

• Seven Pins: The connector has seven pins arranged in a circular pattern. This design supports high-performance charging while maintaining safety. 
• Versatility: The Type 2 cable enables both AC charging (used for home and workplace chargers) and faster DC charging (found in some public stations). 
• Locking Mechanism: It locks securely during the charging process, ensuring no accidental disconnections. 
• Max Power Capacity: Type 2 connectors are capable of handling charging speeds of up to 22 kW (AC) for home or semi-fast charging, and up to 100 kW (DC) at fast chargers with a compatible port. 

With Type 2, EV drivers are guaranteed a reliable, safe, and efficient connection at most charge points across Europe. 

Home charging with Type 2 cables 

Charging at home is one of the most convenient ways to power up your EV, and Type 2 cables play a vital role in this. 

Most home charging setups involve:

1. Wall-mounted EV chargers (commonly called wall boxes). These supply AC power and require Type 2 cables for connection. 
2. Standard power levels of 3.7 kW to 7.4 kW, depending on your home’s electrical infrastructure. 

For example:

• A full charge might take 8–12 hours using a 7.4 kW charger with a Type 2 cable. 
• This method is ideal for overnight charging or during low-demand hours, often when electricity costs are lower. 

Tips for home Type 2 charging 

• Check Port Compatibility: Ensure your home wall box uses Type 2 plugs and is compatible with your car model. 
• Cable Length Matters: Measure the distance between your parking space and the charging point. Type 2 cables typically come in lengths between 4-8 metres. 
• Consider Power Upgrades: If you want faster charging, upgrading to a three-phase system (for 11 kW or 22 kW charging) may be worth the investment, where feasible. 

Public charging and Type 2 infrastructure 

Public charging is often where EV owners encounter the diverse world of charging networks, and here too, the Type 2 connector dominates. 

AC charging stations 

Most public stations across Europe provide AC charging via Type 2 connectors. These are particularly common in destinations like shopping centres, office car parks, and residential areas. Power outputs typically range between 7 kW and 22 kW. 

For instance:

• A public AC station delivering 22 kW could fully charge your EV in around 3–6 hours, depending on your car’s battery size. 

DC Fast charging on public networks 

While Type 2 cables enable AC charging, Type 2 connectors are also part of the design in combined charging systems (CCS), which allow for DC fast charging. 

Key Highlights: 

• CCS ports combine a Type 2 connector with two additional DC pins, enabling charging speeds of 50–350 kW, depending on the station. 
• Type 2 remains relevant even for DC charging, as the top pin section of the connector accommodates AC charging when needed. 

What to know when using public chargers 

Public charging comes with its own considerations:

• Do You Need to Bring a Cable? Some public chargers, especially AC units, require you to use your own Type 2 cable. Fast chargers with CCS ports usually have fixed cables, making the process even more seamless. 
• Charging Network Compatibility: Networks like Ionity, Shell Recharge, and Tesla Superchargers support Type 2-equipped EVs, but it’s worth checking specific locations on smartphone apps or maps before travelling. 
• Port Location on Your Vehicle: Not all EVs place the charging port in the same position. Some have it in the front, others at the back, or on the side, so be mindful during public charging. 

Compatibility across car brands 

One of the biggest benefits of Type 2 charging is its universal compatibility. Virtually all European EVs, from leading brands like Tesla, Volkswagen, and BMW to smaller models like the Renault Zoe, are equipped with Type 2 ports. 

Examples of cars with type 2 compatibility 

• Fully Electric Vehicles (BEVs): 

   Models like the Tesla Model 3, Audi E-Tron, and Nissan Leaf use Type 2 plugs for both home and public charging. 

• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): 

   Vehicles like the Volvo XC90 Recharge and BMW 330e also rely on Type 2 connections primarily for AC charging. 

This standardised compatibility ensures that wherever you charge—at home, work, or on a road trip—your cable will work seamlessly. 

Charging speed and capabilities 

One common misconception about electric car charging relates to the speed of Type 2 connectors. Simply put, speed depends on two main factors:

1. Power Output of the Charging Station: A home charger (3–7 kW) will charge slower than a public station (11–22 kW for AC, 50 kW+ for DC). 

Car Battery Capacity & Input Limitation: Even with a powerful 22 kW station, if your car only accepts a maximum of 11 kW input, the charge rate will adjust accordingly.